Elham Christmas Market is a resounding success
Held on Thursday 24 October, Elham Christmas Market took place at Elham Village Hall in support of Pilgrims Hospices. Once again this much-loved event was a resounding success, attracting over 500 visitors and raising an incredible £2902.38 towards the work of the hospice.
Carol Stevens has been organising the Christmas market for over 14 years. She said: “We want to continue to support Pilgrims because it is a local charity which sadly, all too many of us have had some personal experience. We just know they do a fabulous job supporting people when they are most in need and feel it to be a very worthy cause.
“I started the event on my own, but do get support from lovely local people, who either bake or offer to go on the rota for the door or in the kitchen. The team from the hospice also help with set up and signage to make sure everything runs smoothly.”
Entry is just £1 and, with over 35 stalls offering unique and special Christmas gifts selling everything from beeswax wrap to jewellery, handmade Christmas cards and decorations, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Local resident Gill Ramsey secures fabulous raffle prizes ranging from afternoon tea at the Ritz, Eurostar tickets, festive chocolates and Pandora jewellery, many local organisations and companies support the fair with donations for the raffle and refreshments.
The support Pilgrims receive each year from Carol and her team of volunteers helps us continue being there for patients and their families, when and where they need us.Jo Harris, Community Fundraising Officer
Pilgrims Hospices volunteers and the local village community were on hand to help to set up the venue, baking cakes and ensuring homemade mince pies and festive mulled wine was available in abundance.
Jo Harris, Canterbury Community Fundraising Officer for Pilgrims Hospices said:
“The support Pilgrims receive each year from Carol and her team of volunteers helps us continue being there for patients and their families, when and where they need us.
“It is lovely to see the community pull together and support the event. We would also like to say a huge thank you all the staff and volunteers who made the day happen.”
A date for your diary: This year’s date for the Elham Christmas Market is confirmed as Thursday 29 October 2020.
If you are feeling inspired by Elham Christmas market and would like to organise a market or a fundraising event in your local area then please get in touch with fundraising@pilgrimshospices.org for more information.